Experience Thrills and Chills at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream
Discover the ultimate Halloween experience at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream, where thrills meet chills in a spectacular amusement park setting.
Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream is an iconic destination that transforms the beloved amusement park into a haunted paradise every October. This thrilling event combines the excitement of heart-pounding rides with the chilling atmosphere of haunted houses and scare zones, creating a unique experience that caters to both adrenaline junkies and horror fans. The park features a variety of attractions, including high-speed roller coasters and immersive themed areas, all dressed up for the spooky season. Guests can explore the darkened pathways, where lurking ghouls and unexpected frights await at every turn, ensuring a night filled with thrills and chills. As you wander through the park, you'll encounter elaborately designed haunted houses, each with its own terrifying theme. These attractions are crafted to deliver an intense experience, complete with special effects, skilled actors, and chilling storylines that engage your senses. In addition to the haunted houses, the park also offers scare zones, where scare actors roam freely to heighten the suspense and thrill of the evening. For those who seek a more lighthearted experience, live entertainment, seasonal food and drink offerings, and festive decorations create a vibrant atmosphere amidst the frightful fun. Whether you're visiting with friends, family, or fellow thrill-seekers, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream promises an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement and terror. Make sure to plan your visit ahead of time, as weekends are particularly busy during the Howl-O-Scream season. Arriving early can help you beat the crowds and maximize your time enjoying all the attractions. With its blend of exhilarating rides, spine-chilling scares, and festive atmosphere, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream is an essential part of the Halloween experience in Florida, offering memories that will haunt you in the best way possible.
Local tips
- Arrive early to enjoy shorter wait times for popular attractions.
- Consider purchasing fast passes for quicker access to haunted houses and rides.
- Dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes, as you'll be walking a lot throughout the park.
- Check the event schedule for special shows and performances to enhance your visit.
- Bring a group of friends for a fun and thrilling experience, and stick together in the haunted houses.
A brief summary to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream
- 10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, Terrace Park, Florida, 33612, US
- +1813-884-4386
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-8 pm
- Saturday 10 am-8 pm
- Sunday 10 am-8 pm
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Tampa, walk to the nearest HART bus stop. Board the Route 7 bus towards the University Area. Stay on the bus for approximately 30 minutes. Get off at the Busch Gardens stop on McKinley Drive. From there, it's a short walk to the entrance of Busch Gardens Tampa Bay.
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Tampa Bay Streetcar
Take the Tampa Bay Streetcar from any of the stops along the line to the Whiting Street stop. Transfer to a HART bus (Route 7) at the nearest bus stop. Board the bus towards the University Area and ride for about 30 minutes. Get off at the Busch Gardens stop on McKinley Drive and follow the signs to the park entrance.
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Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Open your preferred rideshare app (Uber or Lyft) and enter 'Busch Gardens Tampa Bay' or the address '10165 McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612' as your destination. Confirm your pickup location and wait for your driver. The ride should take around 20-30 minutes from most locations in Tampa, depending on traffic.
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Bicycle
If you are near the Tampa Riverwalk or another bike-friendly area, you can rent a bike and ride to Busch Gardens. Head north on the Riverwalk, then follow the bike paths and local roads to McKinley Drive. The ride will take approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on your starting point.
Attractions Nearby to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream
Landmarks nearby to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Howl-O-Scream
- The Goods - Coffee & Gifts
- The C House
- Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe
- Hamner Tower
- Seminole Heights General Store
- Giunta Homestead and Farm
- 9/11 Fallen Heroes Memorial
- Centennial Park
- Centro Asturiano de Tampa
- Tampa Bay Tour Company
- Ybor City Gateway
- Arturo Fuente Building
- Murder House
- Armature Works
- Tampa's Black History Museum